If you’re craving a vibrant, fresh, and utterly comforting pasta sauce, look no further than this Cherry Tomato Pasta Sauce Recipe. It’s a delightful blend of sweet cherry tomatoes and savory Italian-style diced tomatoes simmered to perfection with garlic, butter, and fresh basil. The sauce is luscious yet light, brimming with bright tomato flavors and just the right hint of richness to elevate any pasta night into something special. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or an impromptu gathering, this recipe guarantees a satisfying dish that feels both elegant and homey all at once.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Cherry Tomato Pasta Sauce Recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient is straightforward but essential for building layers of flavor and texture. From the juicy cherry tomatoes that burst with natural sweetness to the fresh basil that adds an herby brightness, every component plays its part in crafting a sauce that’s nothing short of irresistible.
- 16 ounces dry penne pasta: Choose a sturdy pasta shape like penne to hold the sauce well without getting soggy.
- 2 tablespoons salted butter: Adds a creamy richness that balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic: Provides that wonderful aromatic base that enhances the overall sauce.
- 10 ounces cherry tomatoes (washed and halved): These add bursts of sweetness and a gorgeous pop of color.
- 14.5 ounces Italian style petite diced tomatoes (1 can): Supplies body and depth with a perfectly seasoned tomato blend.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce so it clings to the pasta beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon cold water: Used to dissolve the cornstarch evenly before adding to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil (plus more for garnish): Injects fresh herbaceous notes that brightens every bite.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish): Adds a salty, nutty finish that complements the tomatoes perfectly.
How to Make Cherry Tomato Pasta Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta Al Dente
Start by cooking your penne pasta according to the package directions until al dente, which means it should have a slight bite to it. Once cooked, strain the pasta and set it aside—this is important because the pasta will finish cooking gently when it’s tossed with the sauce later, soaking in all the flavor.
Step 2: Melt Butter and Sauté Garlic
While the pasta is cooking, melt the salted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. As soon as it’s melted, add in the minced garlic. Cook the garlic for 1 to 2 minutes until it becomes fragrant—this is when you know the sauce is starting to build its inviting aroma.
Step 3: Add Cherry Tomatoes
Next, toss the halved cherry tomatoes into the skillet. Let them cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and begin to char slightly. This step intensifies their sweetness and brings a subtle smoky flavor that deepens the sauce.
Step 4: Incorporate Diced Tomatoes and Simmer
Pour in the can of Italian style petite diced tomatoes and stir everything together. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer—the simmering helps meld all those fresh tomato flavors into a harmonious sauce while allowing the liquid to reduce slightly.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
While your sauce simmers for 4 to 5 minutes, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl until smooth. Slowly add this mixture to your sauce, stirring continuously. This will thicken the sauce, giving it that perfect consistency that clings to each piece of pasta beautifully.
Step 6: Add Fresh Basil and Finish Cooking
Stir in the chopped fresh basil and bring the sauce to a gentle boil for about 1 minute to meld the flavors. Then, remove the skillet from the heat, add the cooked pasta, and gently toss to coat every piece with the luscious sauce.
How to Serve Cherry Tomato Pasta Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil on top adds a refreshing herbal note and vibrant green contrast to your plated pasta. For an indulgent touch, grate some fresh Parmesan cheese over the dish right before serving—its salty, nutty flavor is the perfect finishing touch that makes every bite unforgettable.
Side Dishes
This sauce pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or a crusty baguette to soak up the extra sauce. Roasted vegetables or a simple garlic bread also make excellent companions to round out your meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, consider layering cooked pasta and Cherry Tomato Pasta Sauce Recipe in small baking dishes topped with mozzarella, then broil until bubbly and golden for a rustic pasta bake. Or serve it tossed with spiralized zucchini noodles for a lighter, veggie-forward option that still packs all the flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cherry Tomato Pasta Sauce Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the sauce completely before storing to preserve its fresh flavor and texture.
Freezing
You can also freeze this sauce for up to 2 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating for a quick and delicious meal anytime you need a comforting sauce on hand.
Reheating
Reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If it thickens too much, stir in a splash of water or broth to bring back its perfect consistency.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne works great because it holds the sauce well, you can use any pasta shape you love, like spaghetti, fusilli, or rigatoni. Just cook it al dente and toss it with the sauce as directed.
What if I don’t have fresh basil on hand?
If fresh basil isn’t available, you can substitute with dried basil, but add it earlier in the cooking process so it has time to release its flavor. Fresh herbs really make a difference in this recipe, so using fresh basil is highly recommended when possible.
Is it possible to make the sauce vegan or dairy-free?
Yes! Simply swap the butter for olive oil and omit the Parmesan cheese garnish or use a plant-based alternative. The sauce itself is naturally vegan aside from those ingredients, and it still tastes fantastic.
Why do we use cornstarch in this Cherry Tomato Pasta Sauce Recipe?
Cornstarch acts as a natural thickener, helping the sauce reach a lovely, smooth texture that clings to the pasta beautifully without becoming too thick or gloopy.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it later?
Definitely! This sauce actually tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld. Store it in the fridge and reheat gently before tossing with freshly cooked pasta for an effortless meal.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about this Cherry Tomato Pasta Sauce Recipe that makes it a fast favorite in any kitchen. It’s simple, fresh, and filled with so much flavor, perfect for those moments when you want something delicious without the fuss. Give it a try—you might just discover your new go-to pasta sauce that turns everyday dinners into something a little more extraordinary.
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Cherry Tomato Pasta Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (4 bowls)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A vibrant and flavorful Cherry Tomato Pasta Sauce made with fresh cherry tomatoes, garlic, and Italian diced tomatoes, simmered to perfection and tossed with penne pasta for a comforting Italian-inspired meal. Garnished with fresh basil and optional Parmesan cheese for an added touch of richness.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 16 ounces dry penne pasta
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons salted butter (¼ stick)
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 10 ounces cherry tomatoes, washed and halved (1 container)
- 14.5 ounces Italian style petite diced tomatoes (1 can)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon cold water
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil (plus more for garnish)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the penne pasta al dente according to the package directions, then strain and set it aside.
- Melt Butter and Add Garlic: While the pasta cooks, melt the salted butter in a large skillet over medium heat and add the minced garlic.
- Sauté Garlic: Cook the garlic for 1-2 minutes until it is fragrant but not browned, ensuring it infuses the butter.
- Add Cherry Tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes until they soften and begin to char slightly, releasing their juices.
- Add Diced Tomatoes and Simmer: Pour in the canned petite diced tomatoes, stir well, and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- Prepare Cornstarch Slurry: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth.
- Thicken the Sauce: After simmering the sauce for 4-5 minutes, slowly whisk the cornstarch mixture into the sauce to thicken it.
- Add Basil and Boil: Stir in the chopped fresh basil, allow the sauce to come to a boil again, and cook for 1 minute to fully blend flavors.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Remove the pan from heat and add the cooked pasta to the sauce.
- Toss and Serve: Gently toss the pasta in the sauce until well coated and serve hot, garnished with additional basil and freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- Use fresh cherry tomatoes for the best vibrant flavor and slight sweetness.
- Make sure not to overcook the garlic to avoid bitterness.
- The cornstarch slurry helps thicken the sauce without altering the flavor.
- Parmesan cheese is optional but highly recommended for extra richness.
- Adjust the amount of garlic and basil to your taste preference.
